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Student-athletes from Manteo High School (MHS) and First Flight High School (FFHS) recently took to the diamond to compete in one of North Carolina’s premier high school sports events—the North Carolina BODYARMOR State Games. Hosted each summer, the State Games bring together top players from across the state to compete in regional matchups that highlight the best of North Carolina athletics. For many players, it’s not just an opportunity to compete at a high level—it’s also a critical showcase in front of college recruiters.

This year, several Outer Banks athletes earned spots on regional baseball and softball teams—a significant accomplishment given the high level of competition and the selectivity of the rosters.

From Manteo High School (MHS), Bailey Dickerson, Peedee Berry, Bella Huntingford, and Calleigh Bush were selected for the Region 1 softball team. Representing First Flight High School (FFHS), Riley Gilreath also made the regional squad. On the baseball side, Drew Brown and Nemo Govan, both from MHS, were chosen to compete.

“These girls are all hard-workers and put in a lot of extra work to be at the level that they are at,” said Chad Leary, head coach of the MHS softball team. “These games are just about the highest test that North Carolina softball could offer you. You’re basically playing all-star teams from regions around the state. It’s very good competition. They’re facing the best.”

The Region 1 softball team played their opening game at Carolyn S. Allen regional park in Greensboro and wrapped up with a consolation match at Guilford College. Though the team didn’t medal—finishing with one win and two losses—Coach Leary said there was plenty to be proud of. “It was super hot, so there was a lot of battling the elements,” he said. “The girls shined both days at times—they hit the ball well and made good plays on defense.”

With only 15 roster spots available, making a State Games team is no small feat. In addition to the competition itself, the exposure is invaluable. “There’s also a lot of college coaches that go and watch these games to see if someone is a fit for their program,” Leary noted.

On the baseball field, MHS head coach Zach Alexander saw two of his rising stars—Drew Brown and Nemo Govan—take the field for Region 1. It was the first time MHS baseball players had ever made it to the State Games, and both athletes made a strong impression.

“Drew is a two-sport athlete—quarterback on the football team, then pitches and plays outfield for us,” Alexander said. “He was all-state this year as a sophomore. He’s a great young man—high morals, work ethic beyond none.”

Govan, he said, is cut from the same cloth. “Same goes for Nemo. He gets after it as well. He’s in the weight room every morning with us at 8 a.m., and let’s just say, his shirt ain’t dry when he leaves.”

“Our guys had a blast,” Alexander said. “Metric-wise, they showed well. I got a few phone calls from coaches afterward.” He added, They’re [Drew and Nemo] both playing for a 5-Star team in Virginia with big tournaments this year. I think we’ll hear their names a lot more in the next couple weeks.”

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